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- Julia Amerongen
A Message From Julia Amerongen
My story with cancer is woven deep into the fabric of my life. My dad was diagnosed with Kidney Cancer during the adoption process for my older sister which was not long after the passing of my oldest sister. Tragically, due to the silent manifestation of his cancer, it went unnoticed and wasn't diagnosed until Stage 4 giving him just a short few months after the diagnosis. My mom, determined as ever, continued the adoption process of my older sister and a year later, me! Cancer truly knows no bounds and just a few short years after my adoption, my mom was diagnosed with Ovarian Cancer. Knowing she was the sole caregiver of my sister and I, she underwent surgery to remove the cancer as well as chemo. I still to this day can't recall her ever missing a beat during this time. Fortunately, my mom will be cheering me on during the Chicago Marathon -- like I said, she doesn't miss a beat! My dad was a marathoner himself as well as a collegiate track athlete and he will be there in spirit! ♡ Please join me in supporting Gilda's Club Chicago. It is a non-profit organization that offers critical services to anyone impacted by cancer, including individuals diagnosed with cancer, their friends, families, and caregivers, and those who have lost a loved one to cancer - all free of charge. No donation is too small. I am truly humbled at the opportunity to run for Team Gilda. Every dollar will help bring peace to people during a very challenging time. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart!